When mentioning mosquitoes, many people will immediately think of an obnoxious, black, ugly animal that is always lurking to bite people. And certainly no one uses the word “beautiful” to talk about mosquitoes. However, when you see the tropical mosquito Sabethes cyaneus, you will certainly be amazed by its impressive appearance.
The Sabethes mosquito is a unique breed of mosquito found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.
Their bodies are iridescent blue, and their middle legs have elongated scales that look like beautiful feathers. When the mosquito is feeding, its hind legs curve over its body in a dramatic manner and help create an imposing appearance.
This breed of mosquito reacts to the slightest movements and changes in light intensity, making it difficult to photograph.
Wildlife photographer Gil Wizen was lucky enough to capture photos of this beautiful mosquito. Gil Wizen said that to take a photo of the Sabethes mosquito you have to stand still while taking the photo and it will also fly away if a flash is used.
One of the impressive features of Sabethes mosquitoes is their feather-like legs. Scientists have researched but so far have not found its purpose.
There are more than 3,300 species of mosquitoes in the world. In mosquitoes, only females suck blood and they only do it when they are about to reproduce. Before that, they feed on nectar and tree sap. The mosquito’s hind legs have senses, so when feeding, the mosquito bends these legs forward to help detect movement and flee in case of danger.
Sabethes mosquitoes are beautiful, but they are still vectors of tropical diseases such as yellow fever and dengue fever.